Feels slim like a dirt bike, and off-road it rips with such agility that you'd never guess that it outweighs its closest rival in this test, the Triumph. Barky exhaust gives it a rebellious aura. Embarrasses many bikes on curvy roads and outruns most cars. The suspension has the same uncanny combination of suppleness and sharp handling as BMW's road cars, so the rider feels connected to the road, not simply on top of it. High-quality switchgear survives contact with the ground. So capable overall, we have to wonder why anyone would drop the extra dough on its big brother, the 1200.

THE NOT-SO-GOOD

Narrow, hard seat could double as a fence rail. Trip computer hard to operate with a gloved hand. A touch of engine vibration.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Straddles the line between dirt and street better than just about any other bike.

Mechanically simple—it still breathes through a carburetor—so, of the five bikes, you have the best shot at fixing this one trailside. Its comparatively light weight made it the easiest to wrestle through tight, rocky trails. It has just enough power to cruise at 80 mph, but don't ask for more. Engine has decent low-end grunt but would probably benefit from lower gearing. Suspension does an admirable job of absorbing big off-road bumps. The low starting price means there's money left over to indulge in the huge KLR aftermarket, a benefit of this bike's age. It first appeared in 1987.

THE NOT-SO-GOOD

Earned the trophy for both the slowest and the thirstiest bike. Engine shake puts hands and feet to sleep. Exhaust note sounds like a bleating goat, which is a little awkward.